With three decisive blocks and a defensive highlight in the victory against Pinheiros, on Monday night (24), Rafael Mineiro heard the Nation vibrate with his moves at Tijuca Tênis Clube. Happy, the red-black pivot spoke about the result and thanked the fans present for their support.

"It's what we always say, game by game. We've won two, but we haven't sealed anything yet. We need to come here on Wednesday and play hard, as if it were our last game of the season, to qualify for the next round. Now I'm managing to improve my game and I hope to be able to contribute more. I'm a more defensive player, who likes to get the crowd going. I hope I can continue to contribute more and more," he said.

The player also analyzed Pinheiros: "Their team plays a lot in this transition and at speed. Stopping Bennett and Holloway is always very difficult, the pivots are always blocking. We have to help our outside players a lot and always contribute on defense, which is where I like to play most."

After a month, Flamengo returned to action and won in front of the Rio fans at Tijuca Tênis Clube. Rafael Mineiro thanked the nation for their support and highlighted the importance of a full stadium.

"We were missing that because we played a lot away from home. We played games in Manaus, and the fans there are great, but here in Tijuca, we seem to feel it even more. I'm grateful to everyone who came, and their support certainly makes a huge difference. Sometimes it's not for the opponent, who may have experienced players, but we feel their support for us on blocked shots, dunks, and free throws. We were behind, and they didn't stop chanting for a minute. This motivates the whole team, and we were able to turn the game around, securing a beautiful victory," concluded the center.

The Clube de Regatas do Flamengo adult basketball team relies on direct funding from its sponsor Estácio, in addition to investments from Tim via the State Sports Incentive Law/State Secretariat for Sports, Leisure and Youth (ICMS).